All photographs were taken by Nathan Collie on location at Old Town.
Audio Recording
Conservation Status
Turkey Vultures are common, and have had increases in their population in recent years. These birds were once threatened by side-effects of the pesticide DDT, but have significantly recovered after this pesticide was banned in 1972. However, because they live on rotting meat, they can suffer from any poisons or lead found in dead animals. The main concern is lead shot that ends up in carcasses or gut piles left by hunters. The vultures eat the shot and eventually suffer lead poisoning. Other threats include trapping and killing due to misguided fears that they spread disease.
Habitat
Turkey Vultures can be found soaring high in the sky above farmland, forests, grasslands, and suburbs. They’re often seen scavenging for food at landfills or on the side of the road.